Vibe
Cloistered courtyards and fragrant citrus gardens sit high above the Ionian Sea, balancing monastic stillness with storied Mediterranean glamour.
“Monastic cliffside citadel”
Personalized “Only in Sicily” excursions arranged by concierge, plus heated plunge-pool terraces in select suites.
Fourteenth-century Dominican convent cloisters and antique monastic cells preserved along Taormina's dramatic coastal cliffs.
Valentina Pisani interiors mix smoked mirrors, bronze details, and Patagonian marble with preserved cloistered corridors.
On a cliffside in Taormina, steps from Corso Umberto and a stroll from the ancient Greek theatre.
“serene and understated, the sanctuary-like rooms and suites go well beyond the essentials to surround you in luxury and comfort.”
Rooms
Restored convent quarters feature bronze accents and Patagonian marble, while select specialty suites open onto private terraces with heated plunge pools.
Wellness
A heated 21-metre clifftop infinity pool hovers over the bay, complemented by Botanica Spa with Turkish baths and an indoor pool.
Backstory
Established in 1374 as a Dominican convent, the estate was transformed in 1896 by Prince Cerami into Sicily’s premier Grand Tour destination.
Eat & drink
Chef Massimo Mantarro helms the Michelin-starred Principe Cerami, while Bar and Chiostro serves evening cocktails beneath shaded monastery colonnades.
The neighborhood
Perched on a Taormina cliff, the hotel sits steps from the bustling boutiques of Corso Umberto and the ancient Greek theatre.
More like this
The Ashbee Hotel
“Restored English villa folly”
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Villa Conrad Taormina
“Grand Tour townhouse”
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The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.